Should Beginning Freelance Writers be Frugal?

To me, it is funny to hear so many people say that the majority of freelance writers live off of cheap food and borrowed money. I canâ€™t remember how many times somebody has asked me how I make a living as a freelance writer, and whether or not this is a sustainable career. All of this leads me to the question of whether or not beginning freelance writers should be frugal? While I do not want to turn this into a personal finance post, it is definitely something to consider if you have recently moved into writing as your full-time career.

First things first, you need to know where you stand financially. It is much easier for some people to become a full-time freelance writer because they have the support of a spouse, money saved in the bank, or in many cases, both. Once you know how much money you have and what you will need in the future as you start your career, you can then determine just how frugal you have to be.

That being said, freelance writers must also spend money to make money. Luckily, this is not nearly as bad for writers as it is for other entrepreneurs. What will you need to spend money on as a beginning freelance writer? A short list of possibilities include: computer, printer, desk, office supplies, reference books, internet connection, website design, website hosting, and service site fees (bidding sites, etc.) among others. If you are lucky, you will already have some of these items at your disposal.

There is nothing wrong with being frugal when you start your freelance writing career. After all, you are now working for yourself and a steady paycheck is no guarantee. Just make sure that you do not tighten your wallet so much that you miss out on the essential items needed to get off on the right foot.Â